LOS ANGELES, California (X17online) - Angelina Jolie made a surprise appearance to present Clint Eastwood the 'Director of the Year' award at the Hollywood Film Festival, Monday night.

"There are some people in this business that are icons, and we often wonder if, when we meet them, they'll live up to what we imagine them to be. And Clint Eastwood in person is even better," Jolie said.

Jolie, who is often followed around the world by paparazzi, managed to arrive unnoticed to the Gala event at the Beverly Hilton.

"Clint is what every great director should be. He is a great leader. And I certainly would follow him anywhere."

Eastwood had fond words for Jolie as well.

â€œWorking with someone like Angelina Jolie is a great privilege, because you get to look on that gorgeous beauty every day. And sheâ€™s a great talent,â€ he told the audience during his acceptance speech.